From the Research
If you're experiencing popping and drainage in your ear after flying without a tympanic membrane (TM) perforation, this is likely due to barotrauma or Eustachian tube dysfunction. To address this issue, try nasal decongestants like oxymetazoline (Afrin) spray twice daily for no more than 3 days, or pseudoephedrine 30-60mg orally every 4-6 hours. Combine this with the Valsalva maneuver (pinching your nose closed and gently blowing while keeping your mouth closed) several times daily. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen 400mg every 6-8 hours or acetaminophen 500-1000mg every 6 hours can help with discomfort. Avoid getting water in your ear until symptoms resolve, and consider using a warm compress on the affected ear for 10-15 minutes several times daily to ease pain. These symptoms typically resolve within a few days to a week. The underlying mechanism involves pressure differences between your middle ear and the outside environment during altitude changes, causing fluid accumulation and inflammation in the middle ear space. If symptoms persist beyond 7-10 days, worsen, include severe pain, hearing loss, fever, or dizziness, seek medical attention as you may need prescription medications or further evaluation, as seen in cases of middle ear barotrauma 1. Key points to consider:
- Barotrauma or Eustachian tube dysfunction is a common cause of ear popping and drainage after flying without TM perforation
- Nasal decongestants and the Valsalva maneuver can help alleviate symptoms
- Over-the-counter pain relievers can help with discomfort
- Avoid getting water in the ear until symptoms resolve
- Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen, as further evaluation and treatment may be necessary, as discussed in the context of middle ear damages 2.